The authorities in Iraq would repeatedly ask for a private audience so that perhaps the Imam would agree to their request; however, the Imam had no plans to meet the Iraqi authorities and would try as far as possible, not to give them permission. However, when at times it became necessary and he would grant permission, the Imam would invite a few reliable and trustworthy individuals who held a special position in Najaf to participate at the meeting so that they could not engage in political maneuverings and ascribe any issue to the Imam in order to take undue advantage. Among the individuals were the late Ayatullah Madani and some of the prominent and trustworthy Arab theologians.[1]
[1]Avoiding meeting with Iraqi authorities in private: Jumhuri-ye Islami daily